hug

v. to put your arms around someone to show you like them or to say hello.

v. to squeeze someone tightly in one's arms, typically to express affection, greeting, or consolation.

“The children ran to hug their grandmother as soon as she walked through the door.”

“Upon hearing the news of the successful operation, the family members hugged one another in a spontaneous display of relief and joy.”

v. to stay very close to the edge of something while moving.

v. to move or remain very close to a physical boundary or edge.

“The small boat had to hug the shore to avoid the rough waves in the middle of the lake.”

“The cyclist was careful to hug the curb as the heavy lorries thundered past him on the narrow country road.”

n. the act of holding someone close in your arms.

n. a physical act of affection involving the wrapping of arms around another person.

“He gave his sister a big hug before he got on the plane.”

“A warm hug can often communicate more sympathy and understanding than a long speech during times of grief.”

v. to keep a feeling or belief in your mind because it makes you feel good.

v. to hold onto a belief, feeling, or idea with great tenacity or affection.

“Even after many years, he continued to hug the hope that they would meet again.”

“The exiled leader continued to hug the belief that his people would one day rise up and demand his return.”

Literary